phd in chemistry in uk

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PhD Chemistry / Overview

Year of entry: 2025

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The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent).

Other combinations of qualifications and research or work experience may also be considered. Please contact the admissions team to check.

Full entry requirements

Apply online

In your application you’ll need to include:

• The name of this programme
• Your research project title (i.e. the advertised project name or proposed project name)or area of research
• Your proposed supervisor’s name
• If you already have funding or you wish to be considered for any of the available funding
• A supporting statement (see 'Advice to Applicants' for what to include)
• Details of your previous university level study
• Names and contact details of your two referees.

Before applying we recommend that you read the 'Advice to Applicants' section.

Find out how this programme aligns to the UN Sustainable Development Goals , including learning which relates to:

Goal 3: Good health and well-being

Goal 11: sustainable cities and communities, goal 12: responsible consumption and production, goal 15: life on land, programme options.

Programme description

The Department of Chemistry offers research opportunities and projects in a wide range of research themes including biological chemistry and organic synthesis, computational and theoretical chemistry, materials chemistry, magnetic resonance and structural chemistry, radiochemistry and environmental chemistry, nanoscience, biochemistry, bioinformatics, biotechnology, genetics, gene expression, molecular biology, microbiology, structural biology, neuroscience, pharmacology, toxicology and biomolecular sciences.

The department boasts state-of-the-art facilties including new laboratories and equipment, and first-rate spectroscopic services support with each researcher supported by at least one supervisor and an advisor with pastoral responsibility.

In addition to superb research facilities, postgraduates in the department have a graduate common room and use of a computer cluster, and training in health and safety, fire fighting, library skills and written and oral presentation skills.

Visit our 'Events and Opportunities page' to find out about upcoming open days and webinars.

Fees for entry in 2025 have not yet been set. For reference, the fees for the academic year beginning September 2024 were as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): Band A £4,786; Band B £7,000; Band C £10,000; Band D £14,500; Band E £24,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A £28,000; Band B £30,000; Band C £35,500; Band D £43,000; Band E £57,000
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): Band A £2393; Band B £3,500; Band C £5,000; Band D £7,250; Band E 12,250 International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A £14,000; Band B £15,000; Band C £17,750; Band D £21,500; Band E £28,500

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

The programme fee will vary depending on the cost of running the project. Fees quoted are fully inclusive and, therefore, you will not be required to pay any additional bench fees or administration costs.

All fees for entry will be subject to yearly review and incremental rises per annum are also likely over the duration of the course for Home students (fees are typically fixed for International students, for the course duration at the year of entry). For general fees information please visit the postgraduate fees page .

Always contact the Admissions team if you are unsure which fees apply to your project.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

To be considered for many of our scholarships, you’ll need to be nominated by your proposed supervisor. Therefore, we’d highly recommend you discuss potential sources of funding with your supervisor first, so they can advise on your suitability and make sure you meet nomination deadlines.

For more information about our scholarships, visit our funding page to search for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world's call to action on the most pressing challenges facing humanity. At The University of Manchester, we address the SDGs through our research and particularly in partnership with our students.

Led by our innovative research, our teaching ensures that all our graduates are empowered, inspired and equipped to address the key socio-political and environmental challenges facing the world.

To illustrate how our teaching will empower you as a change maker, we've highlighted the key SDGs that our programmes address.

Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable

Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns

Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss

Contact details

Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality.  Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester .

Programmes in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

Study Postgraduate

Phd in chemistry (2023 entry).

Course code

2 October 2023

3-4 years full-time; u p to 7 years part-time

Qualification

University of Warwick

Find out more about our Chemistry PhD.

The PhD in Chemistry enables you to carry out a unique research project and write an outstanding thesis. You will join a community of leading Chemistry research groups and utilise Warwick’s specialist facilities to produce an original contribution to science.

Course overview

A PhD in Chemistry will give you an opportunity to devote up to four years conducting full-time research, addressing real-world problems in an area of your choice. Find a supervisor in the tab below and let us know what areas you’d like to research. You write up a thesis at the end of your studies. In some cases, the project may be carried out in collaboration with an industrial sponsor. Warwick offers comprehensive training in transferable skills, access to taught modules, and a supportive research environment.

To contact the department directly with any questions please email chem-postgraduate at warwick dot ac dot uk .

General entry requirements

Minimum requirements.

2:i undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry or a related subject.

English language requirements

You can find out more about our English language requirements Link opens in a new window . This course requires the following:

• IELTS overall score of 6.5, minimum component scores not below 6.0.

International qualifications

We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications.

For more information, please visit the international entry requirements page Link opens in a new window .

Additional requirements

There are no additional entry requirements for this course.

Our research

Established ground-breakers and highly talented early-career researchers unite to deliver internationally excellent and world-class research across chemical science with 100% of our research judged world-leading or internationally excellent by REF 2021.

Through close collaboration with the wider STEM community, our fundamental chemistry challenges the frontiers of knowledge for tomorrow whilst impactful research tackles the issues of today. Ambitious entrepreneurism and effective routes to real-world application ensures benefits to academia, industry, and society.

With ongoing investment into state-of-the art facilities and infrastructure, we sit firmly at the forefront of science in the UK and beyond, both now and in the future as we grow to meet the rising demands for flexible, world-class research.

Current research themes include:

• Chemical, Structural and Synthetic Biology
• Materials and Polymers
• Synthesis and Catalysis
• Measurement and Modelling

You can find out more information about each theme on our website.

You can also read our general University research proposal guidance Link opens in a new window to help guide you in articulating your research question.

Find a supervisor

Find your supervisor using the link below and discuss with them the area you’d like to research.

Explore our Chemistry Staff Directory where you will be able to filter by:

• Research Theme
• Research Specialism
• Global Challenge

You can also see our general University guidance about finding a supervisor .

Tuition fees

Tuition fees are payable for each year of your course at the start of the academic year, or at the start of your course, if later. Academic fees cover the cost of tuition, examinations and registration and some student amenities.

Taught course fees   Research course fees

Fee Status Guidance

We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Students will be classified as Home or Overseas fee status. Your fee status determines tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available. If you receive an offer, your fee status will be clearly stated alongside the tuition fee information.

Do you need your fee classification to be reviewed?

If you believe that your fee status has been classified incorrectly, you can complete a fee status assessment questionnaire. Please follow the instructions in your offer information and provide the documents needed to reassess your status.

Find out more about how universities assess fee status

Additional course costs

As well as tuition fees and living expenses, some courses may require you to cover the cost of field trips or costs associated with travel abroad. Information about department specific costs should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below, such as:

As well as tuition fees and living expenses, some courses may require you to cover the cost of field trips or costs associated with travel abroad.

For departmental specific costs, please see the Modules tab on the course web page for the list of core and optional core modules with hyperlinks to our  Module Catalogue  (please visit the Department’s website if the Module Catalogue hyperlinks are not provided).

Associated costs can be found on the Study tab for each module listed in the Module Catalogue (please note most of the module content applies to 2022/23 year of study). Information about module department specific costs should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below:

• Core text books
• Printer credits
• Dissertation binding
• Robe hire for your degree ceremony

Scholarships and bursaries

Scholarships and financial support

Find out about the different funding routes available, including; postgraduate loans, scholarships, fee awards and academic department bursaries.

Living costs

Find out more about the cost of living as a postgraduate student at the University of Warwick.

Chemistry at Warwick

Do you share our enthusiasm for chemistry and its applications, from medicine to renewable energy?

We are one of the UK’s top chemistry providers, highly-ranked for both teaching and research. Our courses will offer you an excellent all-round experience that allows you to explore and follow your curiosity.

The skills you will develop will equip you to pursue a future career in a number of industries with a number of employers.

Find out more about our research students’ careers and destinations on our website .

Find out more about us on our website Link opens in a new window

Our Postgraduate Taught courses

We offer non-accredited and Royal Society of Chemistry accredited course routes, depending on your career aspirations.

• Analytical and Polymer Science (MSc)
• Analytical Sciences and Instrumentation (MSc)
• Chemistry with Scientific Writing (MSc)
• Global Decarbonisation and Climate Change (MSc/PGDip/PGCert)
• Global Decarbonisation and Climate Change (Policy) (MSc/PGDip/PGCert)
• Global Decarbonisation and Climate Change (Science) (MSc/PGDip/PGCert)
• Molecular Analytical Science (MSc)
• Polymer Chemistry (MSc)
• Polymer Science (MSc)
• Scientific Research and Communication (MSc)

Our Postgraduate Research courses

• MSc in Chemistry by Research
• PhD in Chemistry

Taught course applications

Here is our checklist on how to apply for taught postgraduate courses at Warwick.

Research course applications

Here is our checklist on how to apply for research postgraduate degrees at the University of Warwick.

After you’ve applied

Find out how we process your application.

Applicant Portal

Track your application and update your details.

Admissions statement

See Warwick’s postgraduate admissions policy.

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Ask questions and engage with Warwick.

Postgraduate Open Day

Postgraduate fairs.

Throughout the year we attend exhibitions and fairs online and in the UK. These events give you the chance to learn about our Master's and PhD study routes, and the wider context of postgraduate study.

Find out more

Every week, you can connect directly with representatives from Warwick, who will be answering your questions on applying to and studying postgraduate studies at Warwick.

Sign up for Live Chats

Departmental events

Some academic departments hold events for specific postgraduate programmes, these are fantastic opportunities to learn more about Warwick and your chosen department and course.

See our online departmental events

Connect with us

Want to hear more about postgraduate study at Warwick? Register your interest and find out more.

Learn more about Postgraduate study at the University of Warwick.

Why Warwick

Discover why Warwick is one of the best universities in the UK and renowned globally.

8th in the UK (The Guardian University Guide 2023) Link opens in a new window

67th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2024) Link opens in a new window

5th most targeted university by the UK's top 100 graduate employers Link opens in a new window

(The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers Research Ltd. Link opens in a new window )

About the information on this page

This information is applicable for 2023 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply. Please read our terms and conditions to find out more.

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PhD in Chemistry

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The Department of Chemistry offers the PhD as a full-time or part-time research period and introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge.

Please note: part-time study may not always be viable and will be considered on a case-by-case basis, so please discuss this option with your proposed Supervisor before applying for this mode of study. There are attendance requirements, and part-time students will need to live close enough to Cambridge to meet these requirements.

Students are integrated into the research culture of the department by joining a research group, supervised by one of our academic staff, in one of the following areas of chemistry:

Biological Chemistry

Life is the chemistry that goes on inside every one of us. We seek to understand this chemistry, both the physical processes occurring at the molecular level and the chemical reactions, and we also seek to control the chemistry as a way to treat diseases. Biological Chemistry at Cambridge comprises several research groups with additional contributions from many more. The major themes are biological polymers, proteins and nucleic acids: How they interact with each other and with small molecules. How do proteins fold to a defined structure, and why do they sometimes not fold properly but aggregate, causing neurodegenerative diseases? How do proteins catalyse the reactions that they do and can we make small molecules that inhibit these processes? What structures can nucleic acids adopt? How can we detect them, and what is the role of modifications of individual nucleotides? How can we target medicinally active compounds to where they are needed in the body? By addressing these questions, we seek to improve human health and the treatment of diseases.

Materials Chemistry

The technological devices we depend on, from aeroplanes to mobile phones, rely upon ever-increasing structural complexity for their function. Designing complex materials for these devices through the art of chemical synthesis brings challenges and opportunities.

Members of the Materials RIG invent new materials in view of potential applications. Modern materials chemistry is a wide-ranging topic that includes surfaces, interfaces, polymers, nanoparticles and nanoporous materials, self-assembly, and biomaterials. Its applications include oil recovery and separation, catalysis, photovoltaics, fuel cells and batteries, crystallisation and pharmaceutical formulation, gas sorption, energy, functional materials, biocompatible materials, computer memory, and sensors.

Physical and Atmospheric Chemistry

Physical Chemistry at Cambridge has two broad but overlapping aims. One is to understand the properties of molecular systems in terms of physical principles. This work underpins many developing technological applications that affect us all, such as nanotechnology, sensors, and molecular medicine. The other is atmospheric chemistry, where the interactions between chemical composition, climate and health are studied using a range of computer modelling and experiment-based approaches. Together, these two areas form a richly interdisciplinary subject spanning the full range of scientific methodologies: experimental, theoretical and computational. It is a research area with something for everyone.

Synthetic Chemistry

Synthetic research at Cambridge is focused on developing innovative new methods to make and use molecules of function. Our interests range from innovative catalytic strategies to make small molecules to supramolecular assemblies or the total synthesis of biologically important compounds and natural products. Our research is diverse, pioneering and internationally leading. The dynamic environment created by the research groups working at the field's cutting edge makes postgraduate research at Cambridge the best place for outstanding and motivated students.

Theoretical Chemistry

Research in Theoretical Chemistry covers a wide range of lengths and timescales, including the active development of new theoretical and computational tools. The applications include high-resolution spectroscopy, atomic and molecular clusters, biophysics, surface science, and condensed matter, complementing experimental research in the department.

We develop new tools for quantum and classical simulations, informatics, and investigate molecules using descriptions that range from atomic detail to coarse-grained models of mesoscopic matter. This work often begins with analytical theory, developed into new computer programs, applied to molecules and materials of contemporary interest, and ultimately compared with experiments.

The educational aims of the PhD programme are:

• give students with relevant experience at the master's level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision
• give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests
• provide all students with relevant and useful researcher development training opportunities to broaden their horizons and properly equip them for the opportunity which they seek following their PhD studies

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have

• a comprehensive understanding of techniques and a thorough knowledge of the literature applicable to their own research
• demonstrated originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field
• shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research, research techniques and methodologies
• demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research
• taken up relevant and highly useful researcher development training opportunities to develop skills and attributes for their desired future career

Students currently studying for a relevant Master's degree at the University of Cambridge will normally need to obtain a pass in order to be eligible to continue onto the PhD in Chemistry.

The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options:

Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars - these Spring events provide practical information about applying for postgraduate study.

Postgraduate Virtual Open Days - taking place in November each year, the Open Days focus on subject and course information.

For more information about upcoming events visit our events pages .

The Department of Chemistry hosts a virtual open day for prospective postgraduate students. The day includes online laboratory tours, a chance to meet current students and academic staff, and a chance to talk to professional services staff about the application process. 

Key Information

3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time, study mode : research, doctor of philosophy, department of chemistry, course - related enquiries, application - related enquiries, course on department website, dates and deadlines:, michaelmas 2025.

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Funding Deadlines

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2025, Lent 2026 and Easter 2026.

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PhD in Chemistry

Entry requirement:   2.1 Masters degree or equivalent . 

Please check international qualifications equivalence guidelines here .

Coming to Cambridge for a PhD in Chemistry means you will be joining a community of over 50 academics, 350 PhD students and more than 200 postdoctoral researchers. The research opportunities are vast and career development is second to none. 

The route to a PhD takes up to four years of full-time research, culminating in a substantial thesis of up to 60,000 words which is examined by viva. Along your journey to a PhD, you will be absorbed in the laboratory life of your chosen research group. The postgraduate chemistry lecture series we offer aims to bring everyone up to the same high-level of foundational knowledge; irrespective of prior educational background at Masters level. You will present your research at seminars and conferences as you progress. Most PhD students go to at least one international and national chemistry conference in the course of their studies.

HOW TO APPLY

We strongly recommend that you correspond with potential supervisors early and well in advance of submitting your application. This is also important for maintaining oversight of which project you could be working on. Prospective projects may not always reflect groups publications therefore, we encourage you to discuss this with your potential supervisors to avoid disappointment. 

For information about funding please click here .

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Chemistry PhD

Key information.

• 8th  in the UK for our research impact in Chemistry in   REF 2021   (Times Higher Education)

Chemical technologies enrich our quality of life, creating new developments in areas from drug discovery to transitional metal chemistry.

You’ll be part of a vibrant world-leading research community. Inorganic, organic, physical, theoretical or medicinal chemistry – we welcome projects falling within our wide range of research interests.

International PhD Academy

Would you like to develop your knowledge and research skills before you undertake your PhD research? If you’re a self-funded or sponsored international applicant, join the thriving community in the School of Life Sciences’ International PhD Academy. During your PhD degree, the structure of Year 1 can be tailored to your previous research experience. This will give you the skills and confidence to excel in your PhD research, and open a wealth of career opportunities.

Scientists have a responsibility, or at last I feel I have a responsibility, to ensure that what I do is for the benefit of the human race .” Sir Harry Kroto Nobel Prize winner, and Professor of Chemistry at Sussex from 1967 to 2004

We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.

Masters and P h D events

Meet us on campus or online

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Entry requirements

• UK requirements
• International requirements

Please select your country from the list.

Philippines

Saudi Arabia

South Africa

South Korea

Switzerland

United Arab Emirates

My country is not listed

If your country is not listed, you need to contact us and find out the qualification level you should have for this course. Contact us

English language requirements

Ielts (academic).

High level (6.5 overall, including at least 6.0 in each component).

IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.  Find out more about IELTS

We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.

We do not accept IELTS Online.

Check full details of our English Language requirements and find out more about some of the alternative English language qualifications listed below

Alternative English language qualifications

Proficiency tests, cambridge advanced certificate in english (cae).

169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.

We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency

LanguageCert Academic SELT

High level (70 overall, including at least 65 in each component).

LanguageCert Academic SELT scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.  Find out more about LanguageCert Academic SELT

We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres.

We do not accept the online version.  We also do not accept the non-SELT version.

LanguageCert International ESOL SELT

High level (International ESOL SELT B2 with a minimum of 39 in each component)

LanguageCert International ESOL scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert SELT

We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres. We do not accept the online version.

Pearson PTE Academic

High level (62 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills)

PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic)

We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.

TOEFL (iBT)

High level 88 overall, including at least 20 Listening, 19 in Reading, 21 in Speaking, 23 in Writing.

TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about TOEFL (iBT)

We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.

The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.

English language qualifications

As/a-level (gce).

Grade C or above in English Language.

Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English.

GCE O-level

Grade C or above in English.

Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.

Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.

GCSE or IGCSE

Grade C or above in English as a First Language (Grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).

Grade B or above in English as a Second Language.

Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate

If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.

If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language.

Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)

 Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.

Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)

The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:

Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only: 70%

Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English: 70% 

International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)

English A or English B at grade 5 or above.

Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education

Grades A - C in English language

Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 1119/GCE O-level

If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-6 in English Language.

If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.

The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).

West African Senior School Certificate

Grades A1-C6 (1-6) in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).

Country exceptions

Select to see the list of exempt english-speaking countries.

If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirement. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.

You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this, we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.

Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.

List of exempt countries: 

• Antigua and Barbuda
• New Zealand
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• The British Overseas Territories
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Kingdom

** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.

English language support

If you don’t meet the English language requirements for your degree, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course

• Visas and immigration

Admissions information for applicants

If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us

Audited modules in our International PhD Academy

The structure of Year 1 of your PhD can be tailored to your previous research experience.

You’ll be embedded in the laboratory of your supervisor and start your research project. If you need extra training to support your progress, subject-specific taught modules are available. You’ll audit these modules, which means you take part in the teaching and learning activities but don’t submit any assessments for credit. This extra training will give you the skills and confidence to excel in your PhD research, and open a wealth of career opportunities.

Audited modules are aimed to improve your:

• practical experimental skills
• analysis skills
• academic writing skills.

Find our more about our audited modules

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to   feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you   know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

• How to apply

If you’d like to join us as a research student, there are two main routes:

• browse funded projects in this subject area
• browse our potential supervisors and propose your own research project.

If you’re a self-funded or sponsored international student applying to the School of Life Sciences’ International PhD Academy, please label your supporting documents clearly with   International PhD Academy   in the title.

Find out how to apply for a PhD at Sussex

Full-time and part-time study

Choose to work on your research full time or part time, to fit around your work and personal life. For details  about part-time study, contact us  at   [email protected]

PhD or MPhil?

You can choose to study for a PhD or an MPhil. PhD and MPhil degrees differ in duration and in the extent of your research work.

• For a PhD, your research work makes a substantial original contribution to knowledge or understanding in your chosen field.
• For an MPhil, your work is an independent piece of research but in less depth than for a PhD. You’ll graduate with the degree title Master of Philosophy. You might be able to change to a PhD while you study for an MPhil.

Our supervisors

Explore our research interests and find potential supervisors.

Prof Mark Bagley

Professor of Organic Chemistry

[email protected]

View profile of Mark Bagley

Prof Wendy Brown

Professor Of Physical Chemistry

[email protected]

View profile of Wendy Brown

Dr Qiao Chen

Senior Lecturer in Physical Chemistry

[email protected]

View profile of Qiao Chen

Prof Geoff Cloke

Emeritus Professor

[email protected]

View profile of Geoff Cloke

Prof Hazel Cox

Professor of Theoretical and Computational Quantum Chemistry

[email protected]

View profile of Hazel Cox

Dr Ian Crossley

Senior Lecturer in Inorganic Chemistry

[email protected]

View profile of Ian Crossley

Dr Iain Day

Visiting Scientist

[email protected]

View profile of Iain Day

Dr Barnaby Greenland

Reader in Smart Organic Materials

[email protected]

View profile of Barnaby Greenland

Dr George Kostakis

Senior Lecturer In Physical/Inorganic Chemistry

[email protected]

View profile of George Kostakis

Prof Richard Layfield

Professor of Chemistry (Inorganic Chemistry)

[email protected]

View profile of Richard Layfield

Prof Ali Nokhodchi

[email protected]

View profile of Ali Nokhodchi

Dr Mark Osborne

Honorary Senior Lecturer

[email protected]

View profile of Mark Osborne

Dr Cristina Pubill Ulldemolins

Visiting Lecturer

[email protected]

View profile of Cristina Pubill Ulldemolins

Prof John Spencer

Professor of Bioorganic Chemistry/Director of Sussex Drug Discovery Centre

[email protected]

View profile of John Spencer

Dr John Turner

Reader in Inorganic Physical Chemistry

[email protected]

View profile of John Turner

Dr Alfredo Vargas

Senior Lecturer In Physical Chemistry

[email protected]

View profile of Alfredo Vargas

Funding and fees

How can i fund my course, funded projects and scholarships.

Our aim is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to despite financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique individuals. Don’t miss out on scholarships – check the specific application deadlines for funding opportunities. Note that funded projects aren’t available for all our PhDs.

Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (for least developed countries and fragile states) for full-time doctoral study at a UK university.

Find out more

Applying for USA Federal Student Aid?

If any part of your funding, at any time, is through USA federal Direct Loan funds, you will be registered on a separate version of this degree which does not include the possibility of distance learning which is prohibited under USA federal regulations. Find out more about American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid .

Part-time work

We advertise around 2,500 part-time jobs a year so you can make money and gain work experience. We have a special scheme to employ students on campus, wherever possible.

Find out more about careers and employability

How much does it cost?

Fees for self-funding students.

Home students: Fees are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025/26. Fees will become available once set by United Kingdom Research and Innovation.

Channel Islands and Isle of Man students: Fees are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025/26. Fees will become available once set by United Kingdom Research and Innovation.

International students: £26,250 per year for full-time students

Home PhD student fees are set at the level recommended by United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) annually, rising in line with inflation. Overseas fees are subject to an annual increase - see details on our tuition fees page

Additional costs

Note about additional costs.

Please note that all costs are best estimates based on current market values. Activities may be subject to unavoidable change in response to Government advice. We’ll let you know at the earliest opportunity. We review estimates every year and they may vary with inflation. Find out how to budget for student life .

Empirical research costs

On top of your PhD fees and living costs, you may also need to cover some research and training costs, relevant to your research project. These costs will depend on your research topic and training needs, but may include: - travel (to archives, collections or scientific facilities) - a laptop - overseas fieldwork costs (travel and accommodation, and language training) - conference costs (travel, registration fees and accommodation) - laboratory consumables and workshop materials - participant costs - transcription or translation costs - open-access publication costs. If you have a scholarship from one of the UK Research Councils, your scholarship should cover these types of costs. You'll receive details of how to claim this additional funding. If you're self funded, or if your scholarship doesn’t cover these costs, check with the Research and Enterprise Co-ordinator in your School for details of School or Doctoral School funding that may be available.

• Living costs

Find out typical living costs for studying at Sussex

Find out about our terms and conditions

Explore our campus

Experience Sussex life in our virtual tour.

Start your virtual tour

PhD Information Sessions

Visit campus and chat to staff and students. Book your place

Online PhD Sessions

Join a live webchat. Book your place

International

Meet us in your country

Course enquiries

+44 (0)1273 876787

Send us a message

Admissions enquiries

If you haven’t applied yet:

+44 (0)1273 678057   lifesci-REC@​sussex.ac.uk

Find out about Chemistry at Sussex

After you’ve applied:

+44 (0)1273 877773 [email protected]

Find out how to apply

Quick links

• Guide to PhD study
• PhD support
• Academic facilities
• Open Days and events
• Accommodation
• International students
• Student life
• Order a printed prospectus

What do you want to do next?

• Courses Browse our courses by subject area
• Sussex Life Find out about life at Sussex
• Visit Come to a PhD Open Evening
• Apply Find out how to apply

• Schools & departments

Chemistry PhD, MScR

Awards: PhD, MScR

Study modes: Full-time, Part-time

Funding opportunities

Programme website: Chemistry

Introduction to Postgraduate Study at the University of Edinburgh

Join us online on 25 September to learn more about Scotland, the city of Edinburgh and postgraduate study at the University.

Find out more and register

Research profile

Our EaStCHEM Joint Research School was formed by the Universities of Edinburgh and St Andrews in 2004 to combine the research activities of two of Scotland’s leading schools of chemistry. EaStCHEM now provides the largest chemistry research unit in the UK.

In the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021), EaStCHEM was one of only three chemistry units to achieve a 100% “world-leading” score for our research environment. This result rewards our:

• provision of state-of-the-art facilities
• recruitment of high-quality academic, research and professional services staff
• collaboration across disciplines and with industry partners
• support for career development
• nurturing of talent

REF 2021 also assessed >99% of our research outputs as either “world-leading” or “internationally excellent” and 100% of the economic, social and environmental benefit in our impact case studies to be “outstanding” or “very considerable”.

In addition to gaining research skills, making friends, meeting eminent researchers and being part of the research community, a research degree will help you to develop invaluable transferable skills which you can apply to academic life or a variety of professions outside of academia.

The Chemistry/Biology Interface

This is a broad area, with particular strengths in the areas of:

• protein structure and function
• mechanistic enzymology
• peptide and protein synthesis
• protein folding
• recombinant and synthetic DNA methodology
• biologically targeted synthesis
• the application of high throughput and combinatorial approaches

We also focus on biophysical chemistry, the development and application of physicochemical techniques to biological systems. This includes mass spectrometry, advanced spectroscopy and microscopy, as applied to proteins, enzymes, DNA, membranes and biosensors.

Experimental & Theoretical Chemical Physics

This is the fundamental study of molecular properties and processes. Areas of expertise include:

• probing molecular structure in the gas phase, clusters and nanoparticles
• the development and application of physicochemical techniques such as mass spectoscropy to molecular systems
• the EaStCHEM surface science group, who study complex molecules on surfaces, probing the structure property-relationships employed in heterogeneous catalysis

A major feature is in Silico Scotland, a world-class research computing facility.

This research area encompasses the synthesis and characterisation of organic and inorganic compounds, including those with application in:

• homogeneous catalysis
• nanotechnology
• coordination chemistry
• ligand design and supramolecular chemistry
• asymmetric catalysis
• heterocyclic chemistry
• the development of synthetic methods and strategies leading to the synthesis of biologically important molecules (including drug discovery)

The development of innovative synthetic and characterisation methodologies (particularly in structural chemistry) is a key feature, and we specialise in structural chemistry at extremely high pressures.

Materials Chemistry

The EaStCHEM Materials group is one of the largest in the UK. Areas of strength include the design, synthesis and characterisation of functional (for example magnetic, superconducting and electronic) materials, such as:

• strongly correlated electronic materials
• battery and fuel cell materials and devices
• porous solids
• fundamental and applied electrochemistry polymer microarray technologies
• technique development for materials and nanomaterials analysis

Training and support

You will attend:

• regular research talks
• visiting speaker symposia
• an annual residential meeting in the Scottish Highlands
• lecture courses on specialised techniques and safety

You will be encouraged to participate in:

• transferable skills and computing courses
• public awareness of science activities
• undergraduate teaching
• national and international conferences while representing the School

Our facilities are among the best in the world, offering an outstanding range of capabilities. You will be working in recently refurbished laboratories that meet the highest possible standards, packed with state-of-the-art equipment for both analysis and synthesis.

For NMR in the solution and solid state, we have 10 spectrometers at field strengths from 200-800 MHz; mass spectrometry utilises EI, ESI, APCI, MALDI and FAB instrumentation, including LC and GC interfaces. New combinatorial chemistry laboratories, equipped with a modern fermentation unit, are available.

We have excellent facilities for the synthesis and characterisation of bio-molecules, including advanced mass spectrometry and NMR stopped-flow spectrometers, EPR, HPLC, FPLC, AA.

World-class facilities are available for small molecule and macromolecular X-ray diffraction, utilising both single crystal and powder methods. Application of diffraction methods at high pressures is a particular strength, and we enjoy strong links to central facilities for neutron, muon and synchrotron science in the UK and further afield. We are one of the world's leading centres for gas-phase electron diffraction.

Also available are instruments for magnetic and electronic characterisation of materials (SQUID), electron microscopy (SEM, TEM), force-probe microscopy, high-resolution FTRaman and FT-IR, XPS and thermal analysis. We have also recently installed a new 1,000- tonne pressure chamber, to be used for the synthesis of materials at high pressures and temperatures.

Fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy instruments are available within the COSMIC Centre. Dedicated computational infrastructure is available, and we benefit from close links with the Edinburgh Parallel Computing Centre.

Career opportunities

The School of Chemistry actively supports and guides its students in their career aspirations. A Chemistry-based research degree from Edinburgh gives you an excellent qualification for a wide career choice within science, industry, commerce and many more areas.

The valuable skillset of our Chemistry graduates is in demand from employers. At the end of your studies, you will have developed excellent analytical and practical skills, as well as problem solving, presentation and communication skills that will have you prepared to continue towards a PhD degree or for a career outside academia.

Alumni Profiles

• See what jobs our alumni go on to

Chemistry Career profiles

• See the wide range of careers a Chemistry degree can lead to on the Royal Society of Chemistry website

Entry requirements

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

In general, any research area in the School of Chemistry will require you to have a degree in a related field. We may consider your application if your background is not directly related to chemistry; contact your potential supervisor for advice. Potential supervisor details can be found on the School website:

• Research themes and supervisors

We highly recommend making personal contact by email with your potential supervisor prior to making your application.

PhD: A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in chemistry or a related field.

MSc Research: A UK 2:2 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in chemistry or a related field. If you successfully complete the MSc Research programme, you may be eligible for the PhD programme.

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

• Entry requirements by country
• English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 92 with at least 20 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 176 with at least 169 in each component.
• Trinity ISE : ISE II with distinctions in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 62 with at least 59 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

• UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

• Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

• Academic Technology Approval Scheme

If you are not an EU , EEA or Swiss national, you may need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme clearance certificate in order to study this programme.

Fees and costs

Additional programme costs.

Students funding their own studies should discuss Bench Fees with their Supervisor at the time of making your application.

Scholarships and funding

Featured funding.

• School of Chemistry Studentships

UK government postgraduate loans

If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK’s governments.

The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:

• your programme
• the duration of your studies
• your tuition fee status

Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.

• UK government and other external funding

Other funding opportunities

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

• Search for funding

Further information

• Graduate School Administrator, Mrs Gill Law
• Phone: +44 (0)131 650 4724
• Contact: [email protected]
• School of Chemistry
• Joseph Black Building
• David Brewster Road
• The King's Buildings Campus
• Programme: Chemistry
• School: Chemistry
• College: Science & Engineering

Select your programme and preferred start date to begin your application.

PhD Chemistry - 3 Years (Full-time)

Phd chemistry - 6 years (part-time), msc by research chemistry - 1 year (full-time), application deadlines.

We encourage you to apply at least one month prior to entry so that we have enough time to process your application. If you are also applying for funding or will require a visa then we strongly recommend you apply as early as possible.

• How to apply

You must submit two references with your application.

After checking the key dates for research applications, you should then contact potential supervisors to see if they are willing to supervise your work. Check to see whether a separate application is needed for funding, then apply online.

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

School of Chemistry

Postgraduate degree programmes.

We welcome applications and enquiries from candidates in the UK and overseas for both the MSc by Research and PhD programs which are available in all branches of chemistry. All research degrees are awarded on the basis of the presentation and examination of a thesis and an oral examination (viva voce). Annual Progress Monitoring ensures satisfactory performance each year.

In addition, the Graduate School offers a varied series of postgraduate lectures and an extensive research seminar programme with internationally leading scientists reporting their latest results in cutting edge research. Also available are special postgraduate courses run as part of our Centres for Doctoral Training as well as many opportunities for training courses within the  Bristol Doctoral College . 

PhD programme

The PhD programme usually takes 3.5 - 4 years to complete. Postgraduates make a vital contribution in research whilst developing a variety of skills in chemistry and transferable skills in other areas for example, oral and poster presentations both in Bristol and at conferences, report writing, team working, public engagement in science and health and safety. 

MSc by research

The MSc by Research programme takes a maximum of 2 years, although laboratory based work can be completed in as little as 12 months. 

How to apply

Applications are accepted throughout the year. To make an application please complete the online application form .

Please note that a research proposal is not required, but you should indicate your general area of research interest (e.g. laser spectroscopy, organic synthesis, catalysis etc) and preferred supervisor(s) if known.

It is not necessary to contact potential supervisors separately, although this can be helpful if you wish to find out more information about their specific areas of research.

If you wish to apply to more than one programme e.g. a standard route PhD in Chemistry and the TECS CDT, please submit only one application and indicate on the form that you are interested in both.

If you have any queries about completing the application form contact: [email protected] . 

Visiting the School of Chemistry

Applicants from the UK 

Bristol has been named the best place to live in Britain ! So there has never been a better time to come and visit this fantastic city and learn more about the University of Bristol and the postgraduate courses on offer.

Although we do not usually hold Postgraduate Open Days, candidates from the UK will be able to visit the Department once the complete application has been received. During the visit there will be opportunity to discuss research projects with several members of academic staff, to meet postgraduates and to see the facilities. 

International applicants

It is often not practical for international students to visit the Department due to travel costs, therefore virtual meetings and/or interviews will be set up instead. In addition, you can see the campus via a virtual tour .

Centres for Doctoral Training

The school is proud to host two flagship EPSRC CDTs

Technology Enhanced Chemical Synthesis

Aerosol Science

Entry requirements

Read our Admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.

If English is not your first language, you need to meet Profile F .

For further information, please contact the postgraduate admissions team at [email protected] .

Director of Graduate Recruitment:  Professor Julian Eastoe .

We have 491 Chemistry PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in the UK

United Kingdom

Institution

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Chemistry PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in the UK

Synthesis and discovery of next generation scintillator metal oxides (annual stipend including london weighting and a top up is £23,237), phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Funded PhD Project (European/UK Students Only)

This project has funding attached for UK and EU students, though the amount may depend on your nationality. Non-EU students may still be able to apply for the project provided they can find separate funding. You should check the project and department details for more information.

Space-based constraints on UK ammonia emissions and air quality impacts

Funded phd project (uk students only).

This research project has funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

PhD in Chemistry - Development of in situ and operando neutron imaging for real-world reactor and reaction imaging

Gw4 biomed2 mrc dtp phd project: tackling antimicrobial resistance with targeted covalent macrocycles, competition funded phd project (students worldwide).

This project is in competition for funding with other projects. Usually the project which receives the best applicant will be successful. Unsuccessful projects may still go ahead as self-funded opportunities. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but potential funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

Regeneration of Polyester Fibres from Used Garments via a New Chemical Recycling Technology

Litac – bio-based fibres of bacteria-generated bioplastics for a decarbonised textile industry, biocatalytic synthesis and degradation of organosilicon compounds, self-funded phd students only.

This project does not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.

The impact of mineral dust on Aircraft Engines in the Middle East

Funded phd project (students worldwide).

This project has funding attached, subject to eligibility criteria. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but its funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

Atmospheric Sedimentation of Non-Spherical Dust Particles: Developing knowledge for improvement of models

Project at cranfield university: deciphering spatial colonisation and pathogenesis of fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cepae on onions by assessing associated physical and biochemical changes to decrease food loss, phd studentship in solar chemical technologies, phd studentship in chemistry for catalytic co2 utilisation, new optical techniques for non-destructive sensing and monitoring, lithium corrosion behaviour of rafm steels for tritium breeder blankets in fusion energy production, gif cdt: a novel gas/liquid contactor for direct air capture and industrial co2 capture technologies.

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Chemistry PhD/ MSc by Research

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2024/25: £4,786 (UK) £27,360 (International Students) Further fee information  is available.

• Visit an Open Day
• Request a prospectus
• Course details
• Entry Requirements
• Employability

We are committed to tackling current and future scientific challenges, and our current research priorities, facilities and infrastructure put us in a strong position to achieve this.

Of course, we also need enthusiastic and enterprising young research workers who are eager to learn, determined to succeed, and committed to carrying out research to the highest standards of excellence. Currently, there are over 100 postgraduate students and postdoctoral research fellows carrying out research across a broad range of chemical disciplines.

Please consult our  research website  and decide the area of Chemistry in which you want to work, and with which member(s) of staff.  You can then approach  staff members  directly, or contact the  School Admissions Tutor , who will be happy to provide advice about the admissions process and help put you in touch with members of staff who have similar research interests to your own. Further information can be found on the  School of Chemistry PhD pages .

Why study for A Chemistry PhD at Birmingham?

• Over the last four years, expenditure of over £2 million has allowed the School of Chemistry to purchase new instrumentation and refurbish and redevelop its facilities for research and teaching. This has been accompanied by the creation of several new staff positions. This increased research strength has been recognised by the research councils, who have given substantial support for research in the School in the last few years. With the facilities and opportunities available to our researchers, we can make real contributions to tackling the scientific challenges that face chemists today. 
• You will provided with an Induction Programme, which generally occurs within the first week of Semester 1. The Induction Programme considers aspects such as the School Structure, Key Personnel, and Safety Matters, and is supplemented by a number of generic and subject specific Training Programmes. 
• You will also receive training in thesis writing through the requirement to submit two reports (a literature review and end of year one research review) in their first year of registration. These reports are reviewed by two assessors, and feedback is provided. During subsequent years, you may gain experience with paper writing through submission of research for publication.
• The School also organises an Annual Postgraduate Research Conference in July, at which all PG students attend. Students in their second year of registration produce a poster for this conference, while third year students are required to give an oral presentation. You will be actively encouraged to present your work at National and International conferences, and evidence for the success of our procedures in presentation training is provided by numerous best student talk/poster prize winners at such conferences. 

The best thing about my course was the quality of teaching I received. I also personally really enjoyed getting involved in the sporting activities at the University. Thomas Carey, PhD Chemistry

Annual Tuition Fees 2024/25 academic year

• £4,786 UK students, full-time
• £27,360 International students, full-time

Learn more about fees and funding .

Postgraduate Doctoral Loan

A Postgraduate Doctoral Loan can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate doctoral course, such as a PhD.

Scholarships

We offer a range of postgraduate scholarships for taught programmes and research opportunities to ensure the very best talent is nurtured and supported at postgraduate level.

How To Apply

Please note that you may upload a research proposal when submitting your application form, however, this is not mandatory.

• How to apply

To apply for a postgraduate research programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online. We have put together some helpful information on the research programme application process and supporting documents on our how to apply page . Please read this information carefully before completing your application.

Our Standard Requirements

Applicants must have 2:1 Honours degree (or the equivalent) in a relevant subject. Learn more about entry requirements. 

International Requirements

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 14/20 from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Argentinian university, with a promedio of at least 7.5, may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent

Applicants who hold a Masters degree will be considered for admission to PhD study.

Holders of a good four-year Diplomstudium/Magister or a Masters degree from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5 will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a good 5-year Specialist Diploma or 4-year Bachelor degree from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan, with a minimum GPA of 4/5 or 80% will be considered for entry to postgraduate taught programmes at the University of Birmingham.

For postgraduate research programmes applicants should have a good 5-year Specialist Diploma (completed after 1991), with a minimum grade point average of 4/5 or 80%, from a recognised higher education institution or a Masters or “Magistr Diplomu” or “Kandidat Nauk” from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 75% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a CGPA of 3.0-3.3/4.0 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students who hold a Masters degree from the University of Botswana with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (70%/B/'very good') will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Please note 4-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a Diploma of Higher Education. 5-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a British Bachelor (Ordinary) degree.

Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

A Licenciatura or Bacharelado degree from a recognised Brazilian university:

• A grade of 7.5/10 for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement
• A grade of 6.5/10for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement

Holders of a good Bachelors degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good post-2001 Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a minimum average of 14 out of 20 (or 70%) on a 4-year Licence, Bachelor degree or Diplôme d'Etudes Superieures de Commerce (DESC) or Diplôme d'Ingénieur or a Maîtrise will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Holders of a bachelor degree with honours from a recognised Canadian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A GPA of 3.0/4, 7.0/9 or 75% is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1.

Holders of the Licenciado or equivalent Professional Title from a recognised Chilean university will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD study will preferably hold a Magister degree or equivalent.

Students with a bachelor’s degree (4 years minimum) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. However please note that we will only consider students who meet the entry guidance below. 

Please note: for the subject areas below we use the Shanghai Ranking 2023 (full table) , Shanghai Ranking 2024 (full table) and Shanghai Ranking of Chinese Art Universities 2024

需要具备学士学位（4年制）的申请人可申请研究生课程。请根据所申请的课程查看相应的入学要求。 请注意，中国院校名单参考 软科中国大学排名2023（总榜） ，  软科中国大学排名2024（总榜） ，以及 软科中国艺术类高校名单2024 。  

Business School (excluding MBA)   and School of Computer Science programmes 商学院 （ MBA除外） 及计算机学院硕士 课程入学要求

* Applicants from Group 4 institutions are only considered for the following 7 programmes

来自第四类院校的申请人仅限于申请以下7个课程：

• MSc Financial Management
• MSc Investments
• MSc Financial Technology
• MSc Economics
• MSc Financial Economics
• MSc Money, Banking and Finance
• MSc Computer Science

All other programmes (including MBA)   所有其他 硕士课程（包括 MBA）入学要求

Please contact the China Recruitment Team for any questions on the above entry requirements.

如果您对录取要求有疑问，请联系伯明翰大学中国办公室   [email protected]  

Holders of the Licenciado/Professional Title from a recognised Colombian university will be considered for our Postgraduate Diploma and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent.

Holders of a good bachelor degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Bacclaureus (Bachelors) from a recognised Croatian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 out of 5.0, vrlo dobar ‘very good’, or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree(from the University of the West Indies or the University of Technology) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A Class II Upper Division degree is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1. For further details on particular institutions please refer to the list below.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Masters degree or Mphil from the University of the West Indies.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10, or a GPA of 3 out of 4, and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bakalár from a recognised Czech Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, velmi dobre ‘very good’ (post-2004) or 2, velmi dobre ‘good’ (pre-2004), or a good post-2002 Magistr (Masters), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum overall grade of 7-10 out of 12 (or 8 out of 13) or higher for 2:1 equivalence and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters/ Magisterkonfereus/Magister Artium degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Ecuadorian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 70% or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Magister/Masterado or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Licenciado with excellent grades can be considered.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 75% from a recognised institution. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bakalaurusekraad from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 4/5 or B, or a good one- or two-year Magistrikraad from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with very good grades (grade B, 3.5/4 GPA or 85%) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

Holders of a good Kandidaatti / Kandidat (old system), a professional title such as Ekonomi, Diplomi-insinööri, Arkkitehti, Lisensiaatti (in Medicine, Dentistry and Vetinary Medicine), or a Maisteri / Magister (new system), Lisensiaatti / Licenciat, Oikeustieteen Kandidaatti / Juris Kandidat (new system) or Proviisori / Provisor from a recognised Finnish Higher Education institution, with a minimum overall grade of 2/3 or 4/5, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters/Maîtrise with a minimum overall grade of 13 out of 20, or a Magistère / Diplôme d'Etudes Approfondies / Diplôme d'Etudes Supérieures Specialisées / Mastère Specialis, from a recognised French university or Grande École to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Magister Artium, a Diplom or an Erstes Staatsexamen from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5, or a good two-year Lizentiat / Aufbaustudium / Zweites Staatsexamen or a Masters degree from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good four-year Ptychio (Bachelor degree) with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10, from a recognised Greek university (AEI), and will usually be required to have completed a good Metaptychiako Diploma Eidikefsis (Masters degree) from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

4-year Licenciado is deemed equivalent to a UK bachelors degree. A score of 75 or higher from Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala (USAC) can be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 60 is comparable to a UK 2.2.  Private universities have a higher pass mark, so 80 or higher should be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 70 is comparable to a UK 2.2

The Hong Kong Bachelor degree is considered comparable to British Bachelor degree standard. Students with bachelor degrees awarded by universities in Hong Kong may be considered for entry to one of our postgraduate degree programmes.

Students with Masters degrees may be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Alapfokozat / Alapképzés or Egyetemi Oklevel from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 3.5, or a good Mesterfokozat (Masters degree) or Egyetemi Doktor (university doctorate), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a 60% or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the 4 year Sarjana (S1) from a recognised Indonesian institution will be considered for postgraduate study. Entry requirements vary with a minimum requirement of a GPA of 2.8.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a score of 14/20 or 70% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution, with 100 out of 110 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students who hold the Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies, Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Students with a Bachelor degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for entry to a postgraduate Masters degree provided they achieve a sufficiently high overall score in their first (Bachelor) degree. A GPA of 3.0/4.0 or a B average from a good Japanese university is usually considered equivalent to a UK 2:1.

Students with a Masters degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for PhD study. A high overall grade will be necessary to be considered.

Students who have completed their Specialist Diploma Мамаң дипломы/Диплом специалиста) or "Magistr" (Магистр дипломы/Диплом магистра) degree (completed after 1991) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of 2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate Masters degrees and, occasionally, directly for PhD degrees.  Holders of a Bachelor "Bakalavr" degree (Бакалавр дипломы/Диплом бакалавра) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of  2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, may also be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/50

Holders of a good Postgraduate Diploma (professional programme) from a recognised university or institution of Higher Education, with a minimum overall grade of 7.5 out of 10, or a post-2000 Magistrs, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a score of 16/20 or 80% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Libya will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 70% for 2:1 equivalency or 65% for 2:2 equivalency. Alternatively students will require a minimum of 3.0/4.0 or BB to be considered.

Holders of a good pre-2001 Magistras from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10, or a good post-2001 Magistras, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, or a Diplôme d'Études Supérieures Spécialisées (comparable to a UK PGDip) or Masters degree from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (70-74% or A or Marginal Distinction from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 60-69% or B or Bare Distinction/Credit is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Malaysian institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum of 3.0) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from the University of Malta with a minimum grade of 2:1 (Hons), and/or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (Honours) from a recognised institution (including the University of Mauritius) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2:1).

Students who hold the Licenciado/Professional Titulo from a recognised Mexican university with a promedio of at least 8 will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Students who have completed a Maestria from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree, licence or Maîtrise and a Masters degree, with a score of 14/20 or 70% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students with a good four year honours degree from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. PhD applications will be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 60-74% or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Doctoraal from a recognised Dutch university with a minimum overall grade of 7 out of 10, and/or a good Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (minimum 4 years and/or level 400) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of B/Very Good or 1.6-2.5 for a 2.1 equivalency, and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters, Mastergrad, Magister. Artium, Sivilingeniør, Candidatus realium or Candidatus philologiae degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a CGPA of 3.0/4 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in the Palestinian Territories will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3/4 or 80% for 2:1 equivalency or a GPA of 2.5/4 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.    

Holders of the Título de Licenciado /Título de (4-6 years) or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Paraguayan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 4/5 or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  The Título Intermedio is a 2-3 year degree and is equivalent to a HNC, it is not suitable for postgraduate entry but holders of this award could be considered for second year undergraduate entry or pre-Masters.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría / Magister or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Título/Grado de Licenciado/a with excellent grades can be considered.

Holders of the Bachiller, Licenciado, or Título Profesional with at least 13/20 may be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría or equivalent qualification.

Holders of a good pre-2001 Magister from a recognised Polish university with a minimum overall grade of 4 out of 5, dobry ‘good’, and/or a good Swiadectwo Ukonczenia Studiów Podyplomowych (Certificate of Postgraduate Study) or post-2001 Magister from a recognised Polish university with a minimum overall grade of 4.5/4+ out of 5, dobry plus 'better than good', will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Licenciado from a recognised university, or a Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) from a recognised Polytechnic Institution, with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, and/or a good Mestrado / Mestre (Masters) from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Romanian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10, and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree/Diploma de Master/Diploma de Studii Academice Postuniversitare (Postgraduate Diploma - Academic Studies) or Diploma de Studii Postuniversitare de Specializare (Postgraduate Diploma - Specialised Studies) to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Диплом Специалиста (Specialist Diploma) or Диплом Магистра (Magistr) degree from recognised universities in Russia (minimum GPA of 4.0) will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes/PhD study.

Students who hold a 4-year Bachelor degree with at least 16/20 or 70% will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies,Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. A score of 14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2

Students who hold a Bachelor (Honours) degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (or a score of 60-69% or B+) from a well ranked institution will be considered for most our Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees with a 2:1 requirement.

Students holding a good Bachelors Honours degree will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good three-year Bakalár or pre-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, Vel’mi dobrý ‘very good’, and/or a good Inžinier or a post-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Diploma o pridobljeni univerzitetni izobrazbi (Bachelors degree), Diplomant (Professionally oriented first degree), Univerzitetni diplomant (Academically oriented first degree) or Visoko Obrazovanja (until 1999) from a recognised Slovenian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8.0 out of 10, and/or a good Diploma specializacija (Postgraduate Diploma) or Magister (Masters) will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor Honours degree (also known as Baccalaureus Honores / Baccalaureus Cum Honoribus) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (70%) or a distinction (75%).

Holders of a Masters degree will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelor degree from a recognised South Korean institution (usually with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average 3.0/4.0 or 3.2/4.5) will be considered for Masters programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 7 out of 10 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 60-74% or a CGPA 3.30/4.0 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Kandidatexamen (Bachelors degree) or Yrkesexamen (Professional Bachelors degree) from a recognised Swedish Higher Education institution with the majority of subjects with a grade of VG (Val godkänd), and/or a good Magisterexamen (Masters degree), International Masters degree or Licentiatexamen (comparable to a UK Mphil), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good "PostGraduate Certificate" or "PostGraduate Diploma" or a Masters degree from a recognised Swiss higher education institution (with a minimum GPA of 5/6 or 8/10 or 2/5 (gut-bien-bene/good) for a 2.1 equivalence) may be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0, 3.5/5 or 75% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bachelor degree (from 75% to 85% depending upon the university in Taiwan) from a recognised institution will be considered for postgraduate Masters study. Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for entry to our postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree or Mphil from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a Bachelors degree from the following universities may be considered for entry to postgraduate programmes:

• Ateneo de Manila University - Quezon City
• De La Salle University - Manila
• University of Santo Tomas
• University of the Philippines - Diliman

Students from all other institutions with a Bachelors and a Masters degree or relevant work experience may be considered for postgraduate programmes.

Grading Schemes

1-5 where 1 is the highest 2.1 = 1.75 2.2 = 2.25 

Out of 4.0 where 4 is the highest 2.1 = 3.0 2.2 = 2.5

Letter grades and percentages 2.1 = B / 3.00 / 83% 2.2 = C+ / 2.5 / 77%

Holders of a postdoctoral qualification from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.  Students may be considered for PhD study if they have a Masters from one of the above listed universities.

Holders of a Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0/4.0 from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a Yuksek Diplomasi from a recognised university will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (2.1) or GPA of 3.5/5.0

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree / Диплом бакалавра (Dyplom Bakalavra), Диплом спеціаліста (Specialist Diploma) or a Dyplom Magistra from a recognised Ukrainian higher education institution with a minimum GPA of 4.0/5.0, 3.5/4, 8/12 or 80% or higher for 2:1 equivalence and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

The University will consider students who hold an Honours degree from a recognised institution in the USA with a GPA of:

• 2.8 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement 
• 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement 

Please note that some subjects which are studied at postgraduate level in the USA, eg. Medicine and Law, are traditionally studied at undergraduate level in the UK.

Holders of the Magistr Diplomi (Master's degree) or Diplomi (Specialist Diploma), awarded by prestigious universities, who have attained high grades in their studies will be considered for postgraduate study.  Holders of the Fanlari Nomzodi (Candidate of Science), where appropriate, will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of the Licenciatura/Título or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Venezuelan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Scales of 1-5, 1-10 and 1-20 are used, an overall score of 70% or equivalent can be considered equivalent to a UK 2.1.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Maestria or equivalent qualification

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Vietnamese institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum GPA of 7.0 and above) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.  Holders of a Masters degree (thac si) will be considered for entry to PhD programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5/5.0 or a mark of 2.0/2.5 (A) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a good Bachelor Honours degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

International Students

English language.

For students whose first language is not English, one of the following English language qualifications is required:

International students applying for this programme will need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office before the University can issue you with a Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (CAS). We recommend that you apply for your ATAS certificate as soon as you receive an offer from us.

The facilities at The School of Chemistry are really good....the team are very helpful if I come across any problems using the equipment.

Francia, PhD researcher

Research Units

Individual staff research summaries within each unit can be found in the links below

Molecular Synthesis and Biological Chemistry Research in this unit is focused on answering fundamental questions relating to molecular structure, chemical reactivity and physical properties.

Interactions, Interfaces and Sensing Research in this Unit involves measurement, technique and instrument development and computation, with applications right across chemistry and with strong links to biosciences, chemical engineering, computer science, materials science, medicine and physics.

Materials Chemistry Our research is in the area of material design, synthesis and characterisation for applications such as battery and hydrogen storage/fuel cell materials, functional polymers, porous solids for catalysis, gas storage and nuclear waste remediation, nanoscience, drug delivery, recycling and sustainability.

As a research-led School, which has received significant recent investment for research infrastructure, we offer a high quality research environment that provides its researchers with the best starting point for their future career. Through your time with us, you will not only have acquired the diverse range of skills that equip you for a research career in science, but also have developed key transferable skills that will be invaluable for pursuing a career in any discipline. 

• You are literate and numerate  
• You have developed critical and analytical skills
• You have honed your problem-solving skills
• You are well versed in communication and presentation skills
• You can work independently as well as in a team
• You are practiced in the use of IT
• You are an expert in your research field

In short, you are ready to face the world!

University Careers Network

Preparation for your career should be one of the first things you think about as you start university. Whether you have a clear idea of where your future aspirations lie or want to consider the broad range of opportunities available once you have a Birmingham degree, our Careers Network can help you achieve your goal.

Our unique careers guidance service is tailored to your academic subject area, offering a specialised team (in each of the five academic colleges) who can give you expert advice. Our team source exclusive work experience opportunities to help you stand out amongst the competition, with mentoring, global internships and placements available to you. Once you have a career in your sights, one-to-one support with CVs and job applications will help give you the edge.

If you make the most of the  wide range of services  you will be able to develop your career from the moment you arrive.

• Online chat events

MPhil, PhD Chemistry

Research opportunities.

You can study an MPhil over the course of one year or a PhD over the course of three or four years.

These degrees are available for study within any of our research groups:

• Bionanotechnology & analytical chemistry
• Catalysis & synthesis
• Chemical biology & medicinal chemistry
• Materials & computational
• Forensic science

Upcoming events

Check out our postgraduate research webinars.

Rebecca's Strath Story

In the video below, Rebecca explains why she chose to study at Strathclyde and what she enjoys about being a PhD student:

Chemistry Clinic

Find out more about our student-led, knowledge exchange service, which provides opportunities for SMEs and larger companies to access chemistry facilities or consultancy services.

Fees & funding

All fees quoted are per academic year unless otherwise stated.

Entrants may be subject to a small fee during the writing up period.

Fees may be subject to updates to maintain accuracy. Tuition fees will be notified in your offer letter.

All fees are in £ sterling, unless otherwise stated, and may be subject to revision.

Annual revision of fees

Students on programmes of study of more than one year (or studying standalone modules) should be aware that tuition fees are revised annually and may increase in subsequent years of study. Annual increases will generally reflect UK inflation rates and increases to programme delivery costs.

Please note: the fees shown are annual and may be subject to an increase each year.

Our research

We're one of the largest research schools in the UK with interest and expertise across analytical, biological, physical and synthesis research areas.

Supervisors

Postgraduate research at the Strathclyde Doctoral School

The Strathclyde Doctoral School provides a vibrant and comprehensive student-centred research and training environment in order to grow and support current and future research talent.

The School encompasses our four faculties and is committed to enriching the student experience, intensifying research outputs and opportunities, and ensuring training is at the highest level. As a postgraduate researcher, you'll automatically become a member of the Strathclyde Doctoral School.

As a PhD student at Strathclyde, I was exposed to high-level intellectual reasoning. I was taught diligence, hard work, patience and determination.

Glasgow is Scotland's biggest & most cosmopolitan city

Our campus is based right in the very heart of Glasgow. We're in the city centre, next to the Merchant City, both of which are great locations for sightseeing, shopping and socialising alongside your studies.

Entry requirements

You'll need a first-class or upper second-class UK Honours degree, or overseas equivalent, in a chemistry-based discipline from a recognised academic institution.

If English isn't your first language, you'll also need to have a recent UKVI-recognised Secure English Language Test (SELT) qualification.

The application

During the application you'll be asked for the following:

• your full contact details
• transcripts and certificates of all degrees
• proof of English language proficiency if English isn't your first language
• two references, one of which must be academic
• funding or scholarship information
• research proposal of 250 to 1,000 words in length, detailing the subject area and topic to be investigated

By filling these details out as fully as possible, you'll avoid any delay to your application being processed by the University.

Research supervisors are assigned to you by the Department of Pure & Applied Chemistry. We ask that you highlight a potential supervisor in your application but the department will team you up with the best supervisor for your project.

Once we've received your application, your research proposal is passed to potential supervisors for consideration. If it's not compatible with the researcher's current projects and they are unable to supervise, it's passed along to another supervisor for consideration. If they can supervise you, they'll confirm and nominate a potential second supervisor.

As soon as a second supervisor is confirmed, an offer will be sent to you through Pegasus, our online application system.

If you accept our offer of study, you'll receive a full offer in writing via the email address you provide.

Accepting an offer

Once you've accepted our offer, we'll need you to fulfil any academic, administrative or financial conditions that we ask.

UK or EU students

If you're applying as a UK or EU student, you'll then be issued with your registration documentation.

An ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) clearance certificate is a mandatory requirement for some postgraduate students in science, engineering and technology.

Find out if you need an ATAS certificate .

Start date : Oct 2023 - Sep 2024

Pure and applied chemistry, start date : oct 2024 - sep 2025, start date : oct 2025 - sep 2026, dr alastair wark.

Telephone: +44 (0)141 548 3084

Email: [email protected]

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Imperial College London Imperial College London

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• Department of Chemistry
• Faculty of Natural Sciences
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Join a community of innovative academics and postgraduates based in world-class facilities

Apply online

Submit your application online via  My Imperial .

Got a question?

Contact a member of the postgraduate administration team .

Why chemistry at Imperial?

Transferable skills training.

Studying for a PhD in the Department of Chemistry will provide you with access to world-class research facilities as well as the opportunity to take advantage of the many transferable skills training courses that are offered both within the Department and at the Imperial College Graduate School . Completing these courses can allow postgraduate students to achieve Registered Scientist status, full Membership of a Professional Body or Chartered status. Learn more about the Graduate School's MARS membership scheme .

The White City campus: facilities and collaboration

PhD students will have unique access to the growing number of facilities and opportunities that are developing both within the Department and as part of the wider White City campus development.

The  Chemistry Department's new building at White City allows internal and external researchers from academia and industry to co-locate with us for an agreed period, working shoulder-to-shoulder on common challenges. Collaborators joining us in the building have access to expertise and people (through joint supervision of research projects), as well as state-of-the-art facilities . Our facilities include  molecular characterisation  and autonomous chemistry , as well as extensive wet-lab capabilities, cleanrooms, materials manufacturing laboratories, nanomaterials fabrications and molecular imaging suites. 

Nurturing an inclusive environment and pioneering research that benefits society

The department has held its  Gold Athena Swan award for good practice in supporting academic women since September 2013. This award recognises the good practices already in place for supporting women at all stages as well as promoting an inclusive working environment for all.

The Chemistry department has a proud history of pioneering chemistry training and research with practical benefits to society which continues today. We are one of the largest departments in the UK and our activities cover the full range of fundamental theoretical and experimental chemistry, as well as research at chemistry’s interfaces with other disciplines such as materials, engineering, biology and medicine. Our new building on the White City campus is a custom-built facility designed to support the College's vision for Chemistry; this landmark building is providing the Department with the space and infrastructure needed to realise the potential for major advances in molecular and chemical science whilst also helping to develop a new molecular sciences neighbourhood.

Opportunities

Find a supervisor.

To search for opportunities based on your own research idea, identify a supervisor whose objectives best match your idea and contact them to discuss your research ideas before you apply online

Search research themes and staff

Available studentships

Find out more about our PhD Studentships and view a selection of those currently available

View current opportunities

Doctoral training networks

Integrated PhDs providing a new model of postgraduate training. They retain the depth, rigour and focus of a conventional PhD while also providing a broader training experience.

View networks

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Chemistry PhD

• Full-time: Up to 4 years
• Part-time: Up to 8 years
• Start date: Multiple available
• UK fees: £5,100
• International fees: £30,200 or £35,750 depending on the nature of your project

Research overview

Join a School that is finding solutions to global problems through cutting-edge research. We are working in a wide range of areas including cleaner energy, sustainable synthesis, new materials health care and drug discovery. We are looking for passionate research students to help us make a difference to people and the environment. 

Join a thriving research environment with 160 postgraduate students and 60 post-doctoral fellows from all corners of the globe.

Our research themes are:

• molecular bonding and spectroscopy
• synthesis and catalysis
• biological chemistry

For more in-depth information about our research themes, view our individual webpages where you will find about more about supervisors and alumni as well as current and previous research.

Centre for Doctoral Training

These are the current CDTs and DTPs at Nottingham that have projects related to chemistry. There are a number of PhD studentships available each year in a wide range of research areas.

• Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Chemistry
• Sustainable Hydrogen Centre for Doctoral Training
• BBSRC Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Doctoral Training Programme
• Low-Dimensional Materials & Interfaces

Course content

A PhD is an independent in-depth research project. You will be able to develop additional skills through training programmes to help you complete your PhD. See the support section for more details.

In each year you will have regular meetings with your supervisor and an annual review.

You will complete a written thesis of up to 100,000 words, with expert support and advice from your academic supervisor(s). You will also take a verbal examination called a viva voce where you explain your project in-depth to an examination panel.

Past PhD projects

These have included:

• Chemical Synthesis of Bioactive Natural products
• Design and Development of Novel Catalysts
• Sustainable Synthetic Chemistry
• Novel Polymers From Terpenes
• Industrial Exploitation of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
• Synthesis of Antimalarial Compound Using a Simple and Flexible Photo Reactor
• Nanoscale manipulation using TEM
• Chlorotoxin as a Drug Delivery System to Treat Glioblastoma Multiforme
• A Computational Screening of Porous Materials for Biogas Upgrading

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2024 entry.

Meeting our English language requirements

If you need support to meet the required level, you may be able to attend a presessional English course. Presessional courses teach you academic skills in addition to English language. Our  Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.

If you successfully complete your presessional course to the required level, you can then progress to your degree course. This means that you won't need to retake IELTS or equivalent.

For on-campus presessional English courses, you must take IELTS for UKVI to meet visa regulations. For online presessional courses, see our CELE webpages for guidance.

Visa restrictions

International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses. The Standard Visitor visa route is not appropriate in all cases. Please contact the university’s Visa and Immigration team if you need advice about your visa options.

We recognise that applicants have a variety of experiences and follow different pathways to postgraduate study.

We treat all applicants with alternative qualifications on an individual basis. We may also consider relevant work experience.

If you are unsure whether your qualifications or work experience are relevant, contact us .

We strongly encourage all applicants to contact potential supervisors directly to discuss current projects and funding opportunities. Please visit our staff pages and research themes:

You do not need to provide a research proposal when applying to the School of Chemistry.

On the research details page of the application form, you can enter the area of chemistry you're interested in and the name of a potential supervisor.

Additional information for international students

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) .

These fees are for full-time study. If you are studying part-time, you will be charged a proportion of this fee each year (subject to inflation).

Additional costs

All students will need at least one device to approve security access requests via Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). We also recommend students have a suitable laptop to work both on and off-campus. For more information, please check the equipment advice .

As a student on this course, we do not anticipate any extra significant costs, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses. You should be able to access most of the books and journals you’ll need through our libraries. A laptop may be helpful but it isn't essential. The school provides personal protective equipment. The school also supports with funding to cover conference attendance. 

Home and EU applicants

We offer a number of projects each year which are funded by:

• the school and university
• industry partners
• centres of doctoral training (CDTs)
• doctoral training partnerships (DTPs)

Some of the funded projects the school offers are posted on the studentship jobs website .

These are the current CDTs and DTPs at Nottingham that have projects related to chemistry:

• EPSRC Atoms to Products (A2P) Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Chemistry

International applicants

If you need funding please discuss this with your potential supervisor. We can help you to see if there is funding available from your home country.

There are many ways to fund your research degree, from scholarships to government loans.

Check our guide to find out more about funding your postgraduate degree.

You will have at least 10 documented meetings with your supervisor a year but you can typically expect to see them daily or weekly.

Other school staff are available to support you:

• Director of Postgraduate Studies
• Senior Tutor (for pastoral support)
• Welfare Manager
• Disability Liaison Officer

The school has a postgraduate forum run by students to discuss anything related to their studies.

We have a student-run society called ChemSoc. They organise academic and social activities.

Researcher training and development

The Researcher Academy is the network for researchers, and staff who support them. We work together to promote a healthy research culture, to cultivate researcher excellence, and develop creative partnerships that enable researchers to flourish.

Postgraduate researchers at Nottingham have access to our online Members’ area, which includes a wealth of resources, access to training courses and award-winning postgraduate placements.

Student support

You will have access to a range of support services , including:

• academic and disability support
• childcare services
• counselling service
• faith support
• financial support
• mental health and wellbeing support
• visa and immigration advice
• welfare support

Students' Union

Our Students' Union represents all students. You can join the Postgraduate Students’ Network or contact the dedicated Postgraduate Officer .

There are also a range of support networks, including groups for:

• international students
• black and minority ethnic students
• students who identify as women
• students with disabilities
• LGBT+ students

SU Advice provides free, independent and confidential advice on issues such as accommodation, financial and academic difficulties.

Where you will learn

University park campus.

University Park Campus  covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings and modern facilities. It is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable campuses, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003.

Most schools and departments are based here. You will have access to libraries, shops, cafes, the Students’ Union, sports village and a health centre.

You can walk or cycle around campus. Free hopper buses connect you to our other campuses. Nottingham city centre is 15 minutes away by public bus or tram.

Chemistry PGR facilities

We have equipment including mass spectrometers, high-field NMR, solid-state NMR, lasers, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and powder X-ray diffractometers.

You could be working in the School of Chemistry Building, the  GSK Carbon Neutral Laboratory  or the  Biodiscovery Institute . 

Jubilee Campus

Jubilee Campus has eco-friendly buildings, alongside green spaces, wildlife and a lake. 

This campus is home to our business, education and computer science schools, as well as a sports centre and student accommodation.

You can walk to  University Park Campus  in around 20 minutes or catch a free hopper bus. Nottingham city centre is 20 minutes away by public bus.

Whether you are considering a career in academia, industry or haven't yet decided, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Expert staff will work with you to explore PhD career options and apply for vacancies, develop your interview skills and meet employers. You can book a one-to-one appointment, take an online course or attend a workshop.

International students who complete an eligible degree programme in the UK on a student visa can apply to stay and work in the UK after their course under the Graduate immigration route . Eligible courses at the University of Nottingham include bachelors, masters and research degrees, and PGCE courses.

A chemistry research degree can lead to research chemist jobs working in industries such as pharmaceuticals and petrochemicals.

If you want to pursue an academic career, most graduates will move into a postdoctoral research position or other junior academic appointment after completing their PhD.

A research degree gives you transferable skills in communication, problem-solving, time management and analysis.

90% of postgraduates in the School of Chemistry secured work or further study within 15 months of graduating. The average annual salary for these graduates was £30,053*

*HESA Graduate Outcomes 2019/20 data published in 2022. The Graduate Outcomes % is derived using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on graduates working full-time, postgraduate, home graduates within the UK.

If your project is funded by an industrial partner, it is common to spend some time working with them in industry.

Related courses

Sustainable hydrogen cdt phd, chemical engineering phd, pharmacy phd/mres, research excellence framework.

The University of Nottingham is ranked 7th in the UK for research power, according to analysis by Times Higher Education. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a national assessment of the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.

• 97% of the School of Chemistry's research activity was judged to be 'internationally excellent' or 'world-leading'
• 90%* of our research is classed as 'world-leading' (4*) or 'internationally excellent' (3*)
• 100%* of our research is recognised internationally
• 51% of our research is assessed as 'world-leading' (4*) for its impact**

*According to analysis by Times Higher Education ** According to our own analysis.

This content was last updated on 27 July 2023 . Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.

Queen's University Belfast

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Course content

• Projects (14)
• Entry Requirements
• Fees and Funding

The School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering aims to promote sustainable processes and materials to meet the energy and healthcare demands of the future. The School is expanding rapidly and this is creating many new and exciting research opportunities with over £15m being invested to develop and expand the core research areas of catalysis, biological and medicinal chemistry, and materials. Mode of study / duration Registration is on a full-time or part-time basis, under the direction of a supervisory team appointed by the University. You will be expected to submit your thesis at the end of three years of full-time registration for PhD, or two years for MPhil (or part-time equivalent).

Subject Summary

Your research will develop and expand our core areas of Sustainability and Healthcare and our goals are to use chemistry and chemical engineering to create a greener and healthier future for us all. Our areas of interest include adventurous research at the cutting edge of catalysis (where chemistry meets other disciplines, especially engineering, innovative Molecular Materials and Functional Materials), ionic liquid technology (‘super solvents' which do not form vapours and can be used as non-polluting alternatives to conventional solvents) and Synthesis and Biological Organic Chemistry (working to deliver compounds addressing the regulation of cellular functions).

QUB is a member of the Russell Group of the UK’s 24 leading research-intensive universities.

• QUB is ranked =13th in the UK for research intensity QUB is ranked 9th in the UK for Graduate Prospects – Outcomes (Complete University Guide 2025)
• Over 99% of Queen’s research environment was assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent in REF2021 88% of research submitted by Queen’s has been assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent in REF2021
• 83% of Research Impact case studies by the School has been assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent REF2021, placing it among the top UK universities for Research Impact

Research Information

Associated Research Much of our research falls under the broad headings of Healthcare and Sustainability, examples of recent funded projects include development of novel antibiotics and reduction of single use plastics. The School also leads the EU-funded Bryden Centre for renewable energy research, the industry-led Centre for Advanced Sustainable Energy (CASE) as well as our world-leading QUILL ionic liquids research centre. Students trained in our School are equipped with the skills that allow them to go out and make a real difference in the world. Our areas of interest include adventurous research at the cutting edge of catalysis (where chemistry meets other disciplines, especially engineering, innovative Molecular Materials and Functional Materials), ionic liquid technology (‘super solvents' which do not form vapours and can be used as non-polluting alternatives to conventional solvents) and Synthesis and Biological Organic Chemistry (working to deliver compounds addressing the regulation of cellular functions). QUILL (Queen's University Ionic Liquid Laboratories): the largest multidisciplinary research group in the world centred on ionic liquid technology, whose work on ‘super solvents' (which do not form vapours and can be used as non-polluting alternatives to conventional solvents) was voted ‘Most Important British Innovation of the 21st Century' in 2013. All of our research groups have significant links with researchers and other institutions globally, and there are opportunities for collaboration and study visits, etc. We have extensive links with industry, meaning that employment prospects for our graduates are excellent. Much of our research is interdisciplinary, and our students can broaden their experience and knowledge by working with researchers from other disciplines (eg biologists, physicists).

Career Prospects

Introduction For further information on career opportunities at PhD level please contact the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences Student Recruitment Team on [email protected]. Our advisors - in consultation with the School - will be happy to provide further information on your research area, possible career prospects and your research application.

People teaching you

Professor John Holbrey Director of Postgraduates Chemistry&Chemical Engineering Email: [email protected]

Course structure

Learning and teaching.

Entrance requirements

Graduate The minimum academic requirement for admission to a research degree programme is normally an Upper Second Class Honours degree from a UK or ROI HE provider, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. Further information can be obtained by contacting the School.

For information on international qualification equivalents, please check the specific information for your country .

Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.0, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required (*taken within the last 2 years).

International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.

For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs .

If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.

1 EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled or pre-settled status, are expected to be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident, however this is provisional and subject to the publication of the Northern Ireland Assembly Student Fees Regulations. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB are expected to be charged the GB fee, however this is provisional and subject to the publication of the Northern Ireland Assembly student fees Regulations.

2 It is expected that EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI will be eligible for NI tuition fees. The tuition fee set out above is provisional and subject to the publication of the Northern Ireland Assembly student fees Regulations.

3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.

All tuition fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless stated otherwise. All fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

More information on postgraduate tuition fees .

Chemistry costs

Additional course costs

All students.

Depending on the programme of study, there may also be other extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies . Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £100 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges. Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen. There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, and library fines. In undertaking a research project students may incur costs associated with transport and/or materials, and there will also be additional costs for printing and binding the thesis. There may also be individually tailored research project expenses and students should consult directly with the School for further information.

Some research programmes incur an additional annual charge on top of the tuition fees, often referred to as a bench fee. Bench fees are charged when a programme (or a specific project) incurs extra costs such as those involved with specialist laboratory or field work. If you are required to pay bench fees they will be detailed on your offer letter. If you have any questions about Bench Fees these should be raised with your School at the application stage. Please note that, if you are being funded you will need to ensure your sponsor is aware of and has agreed to fund these additional costs before accepting your place.

How do I fund my study?

Find PhD opportunities and funded studentships by subject area.

We offer numerous opportunities for funded doctoral study in a world-class research environment. Our centres and partnerships, aim to seek out and nurture outstanding postgraduate research students, and provide targeted training and skills development.

The Government offers doctoral loans of up to £26,445 for PhDs and equivalent postgraduate research programmes for English- or Welsh-resident UK and EU students.

Information on Postgraduate Research scholarships for international students .

Funding and Scholarships

The Funding & Scholarship Finder helps prospective and current students find funding to help cover costs towards a whole range of study related expenses.

How to Apply

Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply .

Find a supervisor

If you're interested in a particular project, we suggest you contact the relevant academic before you apply, to introduce yourself and ask questions.

To find a potential supervisor aligned with your area of interest, or if you are unsure of who to contact, look through the staff profiles linked here .

You might be asked to provide a short outline of your proposal to help us identify potential supervisors.

Download Postgraduate Prospectus

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In this section

Phd opportunities.

• How to apply
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School of Chemistry

The School of Chemistry is proud to host postgraduate research students from diverse backgrounds, and offers a broad range of possibilities for PhD study to both UK and international students. In addition to regularly-updated funded opportunities , we welcome applications at any time from qualified students that are able to self-fund their studies, for example through scholarships in their home countries.

A selection of recently advertised PhD projects are listed below, covering all of the research themes  within the School of Chemistry:

• Chemical Biology
• Leicester Chemical Learning Enhancement and Pedagogy
• Materials and Interfaces
• Spectroscopy and Atmospheric Chemistry
• Sustainable Synthesis and Catalysis

Please see how to apply , and feel free to contact our academic staff  to discuss these opportunities.

Enantioselective Fluorinations with the Hypervalent Fluoroiodane Reagent

Project supervisor.

Dr Alison Stuart

Project details

An important strategy in the drug discovery process is the incorporation of fluorine into biologically-active molecules because fluorine can increase the potency and improve the pharmacokinetic properties. Consequently, 30% of all agrochemicals and 25% of all pharmaceuticals contain fluorine atoms. In 2013 we introduced the hypervalent iodine(III) reagent 1 as a new, easy-to-handle fluorinating reagent for installing carbon-fluorine bonds. Initially, a transition metal was required to activate the fluoroiodane reagent 1 by coordinat-ing to the fluorine atom, but in 2019 we demonstrated that it can be activated by hydrogen bonding to hexafluoroisopropanol. The aim of this exciting new research project is to combine chiral hydrogen bond donors with the fluoroiodane reagent 1 to develop enantioselective fluorinations.

The successful candidate will gain hands-on-experience in synthetic organic chemistry, asymmetric catalysis, reaction design, molecular modelling and modern analytical techniques using state-of-the-art equipment (multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, stopped-flow NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, chiral GC and chiral HPLC). This PhD project will provide excellent training for a student interested in a career in either academic or industrial research such as in synthetic methodology development, medicinal chemistry, agrochemistry, process chemistry, as well as in fine and speciality chemicals.

• “Alkene vicinal difluorination: From fluorine gas to more favoured conditions” S. Doobary and A. J. J. Lennox, Synlett , 2020, 31 , 1333-1342.
• “Electrophilic fluorination using a hypervalent iodine reagent derived from fluoride” G. C. Geary, E. G. Hope, K. Singh and A. M. Stuart*, Chem. Commun ., 2013, 49 , 9263-9265.
• “Intramolecular fluorocyclizations of unsaturated carboxylic acids with a stable hypervalent fluoroiodane reagent” G. C. Geary, E. G. Hope and A. M. Stuart*, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. Engl. , 2015, 54 , 14911-14914.
• “ Activation of the hypervalent fluoroiodane reagent by hydrogen bonding to hexafluoroisopropanol ” H. K. Minhas, W. Riley, A. M. Stuart* and M. Urbonaite, Org. Biomol. Chem. , 2018, 16 , 7170-7173.
• “Accessing novel fluorinated heterocycles with the hypervalent fluoroiodane reagent by solution and mechanochemical synthesis” W. Riley, A. C. Jones, K. Singh, D. L. Browne and A. M. Stuart*, Chem. Commun ., 2021, 10.10139/d1cc02587b.

Further information

To apply:  Applications for this position are now closed, check back soon for our latest PhD vacancies.

Informal enquiries to Dr Stuart are welcome. For further application details, please contact postgraduate admissions ( [email protected] ).

‘Payload-Releasing Electrophiles’ – a new disease-selective delivery strategy for diagnostics and therapeutics

Dr Richard Hopkinson

Diseased cells such as cancer cells often contain many surface-exposed cysteine residues on proteins due to mutations, over-expression and/or protein mis-folding. Targeting these nucleophilic cysteinyl thiols with electrophiles is well-established and has been used to alter the functions of cysteine-containing proteins and to treat disease. We intend to build on this approach by developing electrophilic chemicals that can additionally release a ‘payload’ after their reaction with cysteines (payload-releasing electrophiles, PREs). These PREs will enable the specific delivery of imaging agents or drugs to diseased cells.

This new PRE cell targeting concept would not only induce therapeutically relevant modifications on the target proteins, but would also allow the efficiency of modification to be monitored in real time (e.g. by releasing fluorophores). This would be very useful for diagnostic applications and for drug validation studies. If the payload were a drug molecule, the method would also enable co-operative treatments that would (i) improve overall efficacy, (ii) would avoid the emergence of drug resistance (a common issue with cysteine-modifying drugs), and (iii) would reduce toxicity to healthy cells. This latter point is particularly important for cancer therapy, as the off-target toxicity of many anti-cancer agents precludes their clinical use. By incorporating electron-withdrawing groups on the PRE, we should also be able to induce reversible modification of the target protein, which in turn would enable catalytic generation of the payload. This would overcome any dosing issues associated with protein-induced payload release. We therefore propose that PREs have unprecedented potential to improve therapies for cancer and other diseases.

The project will involve chemical synthesis (including structure design), recombinant protein expression and purification, NMR- MS- and fluorescence-based enzyme inhibition assays, and human tissue culture. Therefore, this highly multidisciplinary project will give an excellent grounding in biochemical and biomedically relevant techniques, and will ultimately produce a highly skilled multidisciplinary scientist. Training will be provided for all experimental methods.

To apply: Applications for this position are now closed, check back soon for our latest PhD vacancies.

Informal enquiries to Dr Hopkinson are welcome.

Mechanochemical Synthesis for Sustainable Chemical Manufacturing

Dr Fabrizio Ortu

There is an urgent need to break our reliance on precious metals (e.g. Pd, Pt) in the chemical industry owing to their scarce availability, high costs and sustainability concerns. AE alkaline earth metals are very environmentally benign and cheap (Mg £2/kg, Ca £2/kg, Ba £20-50/kg); crucially, low-valent AE metals possess physicochemical properties suitable to replace precious metals, modernise and improve efficiency in the chemical industry, as they have already shown great potential in the activation of small molecules of great relevance for chemical engineering applications ( e.g. N 2 , Haber-Bosch; CO/H 2 , Fischer-Tropsch). Despite their great promise, their applications have been blocked by the challenging preparation of low-valent AEs.

This project aims to address key issues which threaten the long-term sustainability of chemical engineering and manufacturing. The PhD candidate will deliver the first facile synthesis of low-valent AE electrides (i.e. materials where electrons are delocalised and not associated with well-defined sites/atoms) and unlock their application as earth-abundant alternatives to precious metals that will transform the chemical industry. The work will be based on the innovative use of mechanical forces (i.e. mechanochemistry) developed by the Ortu Group, in which we have shown that simple AE amide precursors (e.g. [Ca{N(Mes)(SiMe 3 )} 3 K] can be converted into highly reactive AE electrides ( I , Figure 1) via quick solvent-free synthesis with minimal manipulations; these species are able to perform facile C-H activation chemistry and pyridine coupling ( work currently under consideration with Nature Communications ). Crucially, our mechanochemical methods can significantly reduce the use of hydrocarbon solvents and deliver quick and scalable multi-gram synthesis under very mild conditions. The PhD candidate will be to build on these exciting preliminary results by developing new AE electrides and targeting strategic reactions for the chemical industry and fine chemical production ( e.g. Fischer-Tropsch, Haber-Bosch, C-C coupling).

Figure 1. Synthesis of a Ca electride ( I ) and its reactivity.

AE electrides will be synthesised using mechanochemical methods, supported by state-of-the-art anaerobic techniques (Schlenk line and glovebox), advanced organometallic and organic synthesis.  The student will be involved in the physical characterisation of the new materials (EPR, electron-conductivity, XRD, XAS, RINXS) working alongside national and international collaborators.

Informal enquiries to  Dr Ortu  are welcome. For further application details, please contact postgraduate admissions ( [email protected] ).

Chemical energy conversion in biology studied using advanced spectroscopic and structural tools

Dr Philip Ash

Redox properties of metal-containing active sites are critically important to many biocatalytic processes: one third of all proteins contain a redox-active metal, and ca 22% of submissions to the Protein Data Bank contain a transition metal. Metalloproteins capable of extracting energy from H 2 gas, sequestering CO 2 from the atmosphere, or performing complex monooxygenation reactions, rely upon the ability to access and control a range of often exotic metal oxidation states in an aqueous environment. Much of this crucial chemistry occurs at extremely fast rates, making it challenging to study using conventional structural and spectroscopic methods.

This project aims to investigate the catalytic mechanisms and structural dynamics of metalloenzymes that are vital for chemical energy conversion, with a focus on hydrogenase. State-of-the-art spectroscopic and structural studies will be combined with computational analysis to reveal critical but elusive transient intermediates by studying reactions in real time on sub-microsecond timescales. The outcomes of this project will provide a step change in our understanding of the mechanism of hydrogenase and other metalloenzymes, and will serve as inspirational catalysts for future green energy technologies.

The PhD student will gain a broad range of interdisciplinary skills in spectroscopy, electrochemistry, chemical biology, structural biology, and biophysics whilst addressing critical questions about how nature achieves efficient chemical energy conversion.

Informal enquiries to Dr Ash are welcome.

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PhD Chemistry 

The Chemistry PhD programme is focused on a major piece of original research. You will study under the direct supervision of a member of staff, who is an expert in his or her area of specialisation. The department offers a broad range of research themes across physical, organic, inorganic and computational chemistry, specific departmental strengths are listed under research areas below.

Read more on the Chemistry PhD programme 

Supervisor: Prof Jawwad A. Darr Application deadline: 15th November 2024 Interview date: interviews on a rolling basis Start date: 1st October 2024 or 1st February 2025 (other dates may be possible subject to approval)

UCL Chemistry Department is offering a fully funded studentship (£23,237 pa) to a highly motivated candidate.  The fully funded student will carry out his/her doctoral research at UCL in materials chemistry for the synthesis and discovery of new metal oxide-based scintillator materials for imaging. The PhD studentship will focus on the synthesis (materials discovery/automation) and development using more sustainable, scalable and reliable synthesis routes to such materials.  Thus, the role would suit someone who is interested in lab research, inorganic chemistry / materials synthesis, scale up and characterisation.

Background on the applications: New high light yield scintillator-based imaging detectors using both X-ray and neutrons, are important for enhanced resolution for non-destructive characterization.  Such devices require the use of high flux radiation sources (e.g. X rays and Neutrons) that when combined with dense disks of specific materials, can be used in high end demanding imaging applications; from aerospace component imaging to thick hazardous metal container imaging applications. ( https://www.osti.gov/biblio/1759981 Scintillators and Detectors for MeV X-ray and Neutron Imaging). The project seeks to develop new materials compositions that are suitable in this application space.

Main duties and responsibilities of the student include: to carry out experimental research to make and optimise lanthanide metal oxide materials libraries and undertake analytical characterisation to find the optimum materials for sintering and performance. The project will involve interactions with AWE and its partners. The materials evaluation research proposed in the PhD project, would lead to the development of improved materials with good stability, good sinterability, high optical transparency, short afterglow, and high sensitivity to X-rays and neutrons.  To travel and visit collaborators as necessary.  This fully funded research is co-funded via a UCL impact studentship along with industrial sponsor AWE that is seeking to develop the Uk’s expertise in such devices.  The applicants should have, or be expecting to achieve, a first or upper second-class Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline (e.g. materials, chemistry, chemical engineering, physics).

Interested candidates should initially contact the supervisor, Prof Jawwad A. Darr ( [email protected] ; see his research group website on www.ucl.me.uk ), with a CV and a cover letter expressing your interest in the project. Please note that a suitable applicant will be required to complete MS Form entitled Application for Research: degree Chemistry programme. In addition, it is essential that suitable applicants complete an electronic application form at http://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/graduate/apply (please select Research degree: Chemistry programme) prior to the application deadline and advise their referees to submit their references as soon as they possibly can. All shortlisted applicants will be invited interviewed on a rolling basis until an appointment is made.  The interview process will be clarified nearer the time. Any admissions queries should be directed to Dr Jadranka Butorac at [email protected] .

The updated rules for eligibility for home fees for next year are available at View Website  

We offer an excellent education with high standards of teaching in an exciting but friendly environment. We foster a community feel to the department and you will mix throughout your time here with staff, undergraduate students and researchers.

UCL Scholarships:  find the currently available Studentships with the  Scholarships and funding tool.

Questions & Answers : There's a lot you should ask and a lot for us to tell you in our FAQ section .

Departmental Graduate Tutor Professor Vijay Chudasama Email:  [email protected]

For all PGR enquiries contact: Email:  [email protected]

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Postgraduate

Department of Chemistry

Postgraduate research degrees in chemistry

Be a part of a leading research-intensive chemistry department, offering a range of postgraduate research degrees. Our degrees encompass both theoretical and practical research, addressing global challenges.

Why study chemistry at York?

With over 65 academic staff, our department is made up of international prize-winning researchers. We welcome students from across the UK and around the world.

Our research degrees are based on an interdisciplinary structure. We strive to provide a working environment that allows all staff and students to contribute fully, to flourish, and to excel. When you choose to study chemistry at York, you'll become a part of a department that has a leading reputation for research but also equality, diversity and inclusion.

[email protected] +44 (0)1904 324077

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Our academics are working on a wide range of projects suitable for research students to join.

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Spend up to a year in York as a visiting research student from a university outside the UK.

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Find out about scholarships and studentships that are available to students in the Department of Chemistry.

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Chemistry MPhil, PhD

We have an international reputation in a wide range of fields from catalysis to anticancer drug design and molecular photonics to nanotechnology.

You are currently viewing course information for entry year:

Start date(s):

• September 2025
• January 2026

The School of Natural and Environmental Sciences is a vibrant centre of research in chemistry. Join us for your MPhil or PhD in Chemistry.

Research in Chemistry is organised into the following groups:

Our strength in medicinal chemistry is evident through our track record of successful research. This has included the discovery of drugs that have progressed to clinic. We have core capacity in:

• anti-cancer drug discovery
• biomolecular imaging
• computational chemistry
• chemical biology

Our research develops new methods to synthesise, characterise and improve our understanding of materials. We focus on materials with useful nanoscale properties.

Photonic materials refer to systems that respond to stimulation by light. These can range from single molecules to intricate architectures and molecular devices. Many systems focus on:

• converting sunlight into chemical potential
• the concentration of excitonic energy.

We focus on understanding fundamental principles by using spectroscopic examination.

Structure underpins the majority of research in chemistry, biology and materials science. The trouble is, the world is dynamic and not static. This means that understanding how structures evolve during a chemical reaction is critical. Our research relates to fundamental and applied research fields over broad time ranges.

This research group combines the expertise of organic and inorganic chemists. Our research aims to advance fundamental knowledge and capabilities in synthesis and reactivity. We focus on the elements s, p, d and f blocks across the periodic table. Through this study we can develop new and improved materials and catalytic processes.

Important information

We've highlighted important information about your course. Please take note of any deadlines.

Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.

View our  Academic experience page , which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2024-25.

See our  terms and conditions and student complaints information , which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.

Related courses

Qualifications explained.

Find out about the different qualification options for this course.

An MPhil is available in all subject areas. You receive research training and undertake original research leading to the completion of a 40,000 - 50,000 word thesis.

Find out about different types of postgraduate qualifications

A PhD is a doctorate or doctoral award. It involves original research that should make a significant contribution to the knowledge of a specific subject. To complete the PhD you will produce a substantial piece of work (80,000 – 100,000 words) in the form of a supervised thesis. A PhD usually takes three years full time.

How you'll learn

You'll work closely with an internationally recognised supervisor and receive a high level of training in your specialised subject area. At the start of your research, your supervisor will direct the project and discuss your training requirements. As you gain confidence and expertise you will be given increasing responsibility for the day-to-day running of the project and to explore your own ideas.

Thriving collaborations exist with colleagues in:

• Chemical Engineering and Materials
• Cell and Molecular Biology
• Electrical and Civil Engineering

The School is also associated with the Faculty of Medical Sciences and the Institute for Sustainability.

Depending on your modules, you'll be assessed through a combination of:

We offer a wide range of projects for the thesis. These will be provided by our academics. You can also propose your own topic.

Our mission is to help you:

• stay healthy, positive and feeling well
• overcome any challenges you may face during your degree – academic or personal
• get the most out of your postgraduate research experience
• carry out admin and activities essential to progressing through your degree
• understand postgraduate research processes, standards and rules

We can offer you tailored wellbeing support, courses and activities.

You can also access a broad range of workshops covering:

• research and professional skills
• careers support
• health and safety
• public engagement
• academic development

Find out more about our postgraduate research student support

Your development

Faculty of science, agriculture and engineering (sage) researcher development programme.

Each faculty offers a researcher development programme for its postgraduate research students. We have designed your programme to help you:

• perform better as a researcher
• boost your career prospects
• broaden your impact

Through workshops and activities, it will build your transferable skills and increase your confidence.

You’ll cover:

• techniques for effective research
• methods for better collaborative working
• essential professional standards and requirements

Your programme is flexible. You can adapt it to meet your changing needs as you progress through your doctorate.

Doctoral training and partnerships

There are opportunities to undertake your PhD at Newcastle within a:

• Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT)
• Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP)

Being part of a CDT or DTP has many benefits:

• they combine research expertise and training of a number of leading universities, academic schools and academics.
• you’ll study alongside a cohort of other PhD students
• they’re often interdisciplinary
• your PhD may be funded

If there are currently opportunities available in your subject area you’ll find them when you search for funding in the fees and funding section on this course.

The following centres/partnerships below may have PhD opportunities available in your subject area in the future:

• EPSRC Aura Centre for Doctoral Training in Offshore Wind Energy and the Environment
• IAPETUS2 Doctoral Training Partnership 
• Discovery Medicine North - MRC DiMeN Doctoral Training Partnership
• EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Molecular Sciences for Medicine (MoSMed)
• ONE Planet Doctoral Training Partnership
• EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Renewable Energy Northeast Universities (ReNU)

Your future

Our careers service.

Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.

Visit our Careers Service website

Quality and ranking

All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body

From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK

Check the government’s website for more information .

Chemistry facilities

The School of Natural and Environmental Sciences has an outstanding range of facilities to support research and teaching, including:

• modern research laboratories
• synthesis and characterisation of novel materials lab
• computational resources for performing molecular modelling
• NMR facilities include 300-700 MHz spectrometers
• glass-blowing, mechanical and electrical/electronic workshops

Fees and funding

Tuition fees for 2025 entry (per year).

We are unable to give an exact fee, this is why the fee is shown as a range. This fee range takes into account your research topic and resource requirements.

Your research topic is unique so it will have unique resource requirements. Resources could include specialist equipment, such as laboratory/workshop access, or technical staff.

If your research involves accessing specialist resources then you're likely to pay a higher fee. You'll discuss the exact nature of your research project with your supervisor(s). You'll find out the fee in your offer letter.

Home fees for research degree students

For 2024-25 entry, we have aligned our standard Home research fees with those set by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) . The standard fee was confirmed in Spring 2024 by UKRI.

For 2025-26 entry, we will be aligning our standard  Home research fees  with those set by  UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) . The standard fee will be confirmed in Spring 2025 by UKRI.

As a general principle, you should expect the tuition fee to increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, subject to government regulations on fee increases and in line with inflation.

Depending on your residency history, if you’re a student from the EU, other EEA or a Swiss national, with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you’ll normally pay the ‘Home’ tuition fee rate and may be eligible for Student Finance England support.

EU students without settled or pre-settled status will normally be charged fees at the ‘International’ rate and will not be eligible for Student Finance England support.

If you are unsure of your fee status, check out the latest guidance here .

Scholarships

We support our EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships. See  our   searchable postgraduate funding page  for more information.  

What you're paying for

Tuition fees include the costs of:

• matriculation
• registration
• tuition (or supervision)
• library access
• examination
• re-examination

Find out more about:

• living costs
• tuition fees

If you are an international student or a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you need a visa to study in the UK, you may have to pay a deposit.

You can check this in the How to apply section .

If you're applying for funding, always check the funding application deadline. This deadline may be earlier than the application deadline for your course.

For some funding schemes, you need to have received an offer of a place on a course before you can apply for the funding.

Search for funding

Find funding available for your course

Entry requirements

The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.

Qualifications from outside the UK

English language requirements, admissions policy.

This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.

Download our admissions policy (PDF: 201KB) Other policies related to admissions

Credit transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can allow you to convert existing relevant university-level knowledge, skills and experience into credits towards a qualification. Find out more about the RPL policy which may apply to this course

• How to apply

Using the application portal

The application portal has instructions to guide you through your application. It will tell you what documents you need and how to upload them.

You can choose to start your application, save your details and come back to complete it later.

If you’re ready, you can select Apply Online and you’ll be taken directly to the application portal.

Alternatively you can find out more about applying on our applications and offers pages .

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Find out about how you can visit Newcastle in person and virtually

Overseas events

We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University.

Visit our events calendar for the latest events

• Get in touch

Questions about this course?

If you have specific questions about this course you can contact:

Postgraduate Research Administrator Telephone: +44 (0) 191 208 6900 Email: [email protected] School of Natural and Environmental Sciences ncl.ac.uk/nes

For more general enquiries you could also complete our online enquiry form.

Fill in our enquiry form

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You'll find our Ncl chatbot in the bottom right of this page.

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